All by myself

Hantavirus? You must have read about the wife of a famous celebrity whose death was attributed to the virus. Albeit rare, it can be a serious and life-threatening condition, warranting increased awareness and surveillance. In the US, it is a national notifiable disease.

While its rarity might make you inclined to dismiss the disease, rodents are the most identified reservoirs, therefore, it can occur almost anywhere. Data show that annually, it affects around 200,000 individuals worldwide. In the Philippines, in a study published in the International Journal of Infectious Diseases by Quelapio et al. in 2000, in 461 asymptomatic subjects coming from rural, urban, and urban poor populations, around 6.1 percent were positive for antibodies against the hantavirus, proof that the virus is present in our country. Furthermore, as it can present either as a hantavirus pulmonary syndrome or hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, while it may not be a primary initial impression, it should be a consideration on the background that manifestations which are non-specific at the onset may resemble a course similar to dengue or leptospirosis, which are endemic in our country.

If the probability managed to trigger a quick and more in-depth review for the physician, on my end, it also served as a reminder to be better prepared for medical emergencies, especially if one is living or traveling alone. For those who are fortunate to be in the company of family members or loyal caregivers, this may not be a primary concern. But think about the people who may not have the luxury or who prefer living on their own.

Looking for statistics, I was met with data from Japan on the number of lonely deaths. Lonely death or “kodokushi“ is a term for individuals who have died alone and whose deaths have gone unnoticed for extended periods of time. From the BBC website in August 2024, according to the reports from the National Police Agency of Japan, in the first half of the year, they had recorded 37,227 deaths of people who lived alone, with 70 percent being aged 65 years and older.

While we must learn to accept the fact that we will eventually have a terminal date, aging or having a chronic condition is associated with physical and mental limitations that could render one helpless. If you are of that fatalistic mindset, remember what is to follow will not only be of benefit to you, but to those who will attend to your needs or will be left to make difficult decisions in the eventuality that you are unable to do so.

Have someone check on you daily. If possible, choose someone whom you can rely on, is available 24/7, and who wouldn’t mind being called upon. The person of your choice does not necessarily have to be a blood relation as not in all instances would the latter be a guarantee that a helping and caring hand will be extended.

Have someone be aware of your whereabouts for the day. Be accessible. If you have a companion with you, share his or her number as unexpected situations may arise. Before leaving for an intended destination and before you retire for the night, leave an emergency number by your bedside.

Keep a short report of the essentials of your medical history with you at all times, including your medications, emergency numbers of persons to be notified, and include your insurance plan. While this may sound extreme, it would be very helpful for the first responder or the physician attending to your case. An uncle who is in his 70s, living alone in the United States and currently on a mission to visit as many places as he can, showed me a folder that detailed all his consults and diagnostic tests. I was impressed! Any doctor would be appreciative of his efforts.

At home, make a list of both cellphone and landline numbers to call in case of emergencies. A friend, known for her attention to detail, showed me how. On her kitchen wall, visible for everyone to see, was an algorithm to be followed by members of the household in situations where her elderly mother would need medical attention.

Familiarize yourself with the nearest hospital or treatment facility. If feeling ill or experiencing unusual symptoms, seek consult. Time will always be of the essence. If you have a physician whom you can call for advice or who is connected to your hospital of choice, do not hesitate to reach out.

Have an advance directive. Most of the time, those who are left to decide face the heavy burden of what course of action to take. Spare your loved ones from the emotional burden.

Last but not least, learn to be that person whom anyone can rely on. What goes around, comes around.